McGovern's first appearance in film—opposite Timothy Hutton in Ordinary People (1980)—won critical and popular acclaim. She was nominated for an Oscar for her next film role, in Ragtime (1981). But rather than seek top billing in commercial blockbusters, McGovern focuses on unusual, creative venues on screen and stage, including the film The Handmaid's Tale (1990). Other film appearances have included King of the Hill (1993), Wings of Courage (1995) and The Wings of the Dove (1997). She was a cast member in the short-lived David E. Kelley series The Brotherhood of Poland, New Hampshire (2003).